Home with fire damage/smoke.

Our home fire occurred on September 14, 2025. The insurance company initially provided a payout of $2,000 but has refused to cover any living expenses while we are displaced from our home. (Until the hygienist report came back.) They hired a hygienist to inspect the property after originally refusing to test the insulation for soot damage inside the drywall. Following the inspection, the insurance company claimed there was only minimal soot damage to the interior of the home.

However, the fire started in our attic and garage, and smoke traveled throughout the entire house, including through the AC vents. Despite this, the insurer is refusing to pay for any interior damages and insists that everything — including mattresses, clothing, and other belongings — can simply be cleaned.

I do not believe these materials can be safely or effectively cleaned given the level of smoke damage. Additionally, our adjuster has not been returning calls promptly, often failing to respond within the one-business-day timeframe.

Advice needed. Would a lawyer/public adjuster be worth it?